Ford of Europe has announced new senior management appointments.

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After five years with Ford in Europe, Derrick Kuzak, currently vice president product development, is returning to the United States to take up the role of vice president, North America engineering, effective August 1. He will be succeeded by Joe Bakaj, until recently senior managing executive officer in charge of research and development at Mazda.


Stephen Odell is named vice president of marketing, sales and service, Ford of Europe, from September 1, replacing Geoff Polites, who was on Tuesday named chief executive officer of Jaguar and Land Rover.


Odell has an extensive track record in sales and marketing for Ford, Jaguar and Mazda and has worked in all major markets around the world.


Roger Putnam, recently named president of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders in recognition of his standing in the industry in the UK, has agreed to stay on in his role of chairman of Ford of Britain.

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